Now that it’s November cold weather is in full swing here (in Seattle) and if you’re like me you probably struggle to wake up in the morning. It’s cold, dark out and all you want to do is stay under the covers… right? Before you know it you’re late and frantically running around to make it to work on time. That kind of morning is not the best way to start your morning, I mean all this stress before you have a cup of coffee? Yikes, looking like it’s already a rough day before you’re even out the door!

I’ve struggled with this every fall/winter as the temps cool down but after some research I’ve compiled a couple ways you can have a calm, peaceful and stress free morning.

Start getting into bed earlier and try to go to bed earlier. Read a book or a magazine instead of looking at your phone or iPad. The blue light emitted by screens on cell phones, computers, tablets, and televisions prevent the production of melatonin, the hormone that controls your sleep/wake cycle or circadian rhythm.

Commit to a workout class or workout session with a friend in the morning. This way it forces you to wake up early and by committing to a class or workout with a friend you aren’t as likely to cancel.

Sleep with the shades open and or set a timer for a dim light. I always struggle with waking up in the morning because its so dark but if theres a little bit of light it helps you wake up and get going in the morning.

Charge your phone across the room so you’re not tempted to hit snooze and look at your phone before going to bed. This way when your alarm goes off you’re forced to get up and turn off your alarm.

Once you wake up, meditate for 5 to 10 minutes. Yes you might be rushed but perhaps wake up 5 minutes earlier so you can take some quality time for yourself. This app and this app is great!

Drink hot lemon water, this will warm your body inside and it’s a good way to hydrate which is very important in the winter!